### Nine Months in London: Insights Gained
*By Harsh Gupta, MSc. Advanced Materials Science and Engineering*
Just a few days back, I celebrated my nine-month mark in London. Although this duration might not seem extensive, it has provided me with ample opportunities to explore and understand this dynamic city. London is renowned not just for its variety of living arrangements but also for its rich assortment of communities that inhabit it. For students, the city is replete with housing options, from student residences to private rentals. Choices encompass ensuite and shared bathrooms, private and communal rooms, studio apartments, and shared houses. While local students can conveniently arrange in-person viewings, international students frequently depend on platforms such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or SpareRoom to discover properties virtually, evaluate amenities, and gauge proximity to public transit.
When I initiated my housing search, I concentrated on securing a room in Central London. Living in the heart of the city allowed me to be near major landmarks, vibrant social scenes, and, most importantly, the campus of Imperial College. London is segmented into six concentric zones, with the first two being the most central. The city boasts an exceptional public transport system—including the Underground (tube), buses, and trains—which facilitates easy movement across zones. However, traveling between these zones can be expensive, with daily costs soaring up to £5.25. To cut down on expenses, I chose to walk shorter distances rather than rely on public transportation. For longer trips, the Oyster card offers significant discounts for students. Furthermore, the London Overground and National Rail services extend beyond the Underground, linking outer zones with the city center, although fares differ based on distance and the operator’s pricing model.
Residing in Central London offers unique advantages, but it also comes with steep living costs. To control my budget, I opted to share accommodation with a fellow university student. This decision resulted in considerable savings on rent. I selected intercollegiate student housing to connect with peers from various backgrounds and similar age groups—something more challenging in private accommodations.
Access to grocery stores was another crucial aspect for me. Popular supermarket chains like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Co-op are prevalent, while affordable alternatives include Aldi, Lidl, and Iceland. Living near essential shops, including pharmacies, proves incredibly beneficial, particularly during busy times like exam season.
Selecting the ideal neighborhood can prove to be a daunting task. London’s ethnic communities are a vital component of its cultural landscape, offering an array of distinctive neighborhoods. Many international students tend to gravitate towards areas that provide a sense of familiarity. For example, Southall in West London boasts a substantial South Asian community with Indian eateries, grocery outlets, and traditional clothing boutiques. Brixton in South London is acclaimed for its Afro-Caribbean community and lively music culture. Additionally, Chinatown, situated in the heart of London’s West End, is a lively area brimming with Chinese dining options, shops, and cultural festivities. These exemplify just a few of the diverse neighborhoods that contribute to London’s charm.
In the end, the ideal living space in London hinges on your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you’re on the lookout for a new abode or merely discovering the city, embrace the rich variety of London’s accommodation possibilities, immerse yourself in its cultural spaces, and relish the convenience and vibrancy of this extraordinary city.
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*By [Guest Blogger](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/author/bloggers/)*
*Categorized under [Uncategorized](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/category/uncategorized/)*
*Tagged: [accommodation](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/tag/accommodation/), [housing](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/tag/housing/), [London Life](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/tag/london-life/), [master’s](https://blogs.imperial.ac.uk/student-blogs/tag/masters/)*